N. American International Auto Show -- Industry Preview Day (WITH VIDEO)

The North American International Auto Show is in full swing. Once again the media had first crack at viewing the latest cars and trucks from Japan, Germany, South Korea and, yes, America. Iíll never understand why the auto show opens to the media before the public. Iím a dues-paying, card-carrying member of the Automotive Press Association and I still feel the public should go first. Members of the public are the ones who actually buy the cars. Iíve also wondered annually why the auto show charges an admission. The show serves as pure advertising for the car industry so why not make it free? The answer is, as usual, because they can. The public is willing to pay so the auto show is willing to take our money.

I must admit I look forward to the show each year. The four-wheeled models are gorgeous, the two-legged models are gorgeous and the People Mover whirring overhead inside Cobo Center is a constant reminder of how this area lacks a true mass transit system. But thatís good for the car business. On Friday, the Secretary of Transportation (how did that position begin -- shortly after the wheel was invented?) is coming to Detroit to announce a very short light-rail system that will go from downtown to about the New Center area. I am not hopeful. Anything like that has to extend as far as Pontiac or itís useless to commuters. Iím just saying.

In 2012, NAIAS featured 42 vehicle debuts with 38 of those being worldwide introductions. Over 5,000 journalists attended from 58 countries. Nearly 30 percent of the journalists were international, thus helping to spread automotive news made at NAIAS 2012 to the world. Nearly 771,000 visitors passed through the doors during public days. NAIAS is uniquely positioned to be four shows in one - a media preview, an industry preview, a charity preview and a public show with a 9-day run.

Industry Preview - January 16-17, 2013, follows two days for the media. This is a great cultural experience. Many, many reporters looking very tired because they just took a very long flight. And many many European reporters still wearing black clothing.

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Charity Preview - January 18, 2013

Enjoy the first views of the spectacular North American International Auto Show 2012. Charity Preview is your opportunity to be a part of one of the most exclusive, high profile events in the nation.

Proceeds directly benefit a wide range of childrenís charities. Funds raised will support services for children of all ages from birth to 18. Since 1976, the Charity Preview has raised more than $87 million for southeastern Michigan childrenís charities - over $49 million of which was raised in the last 10 years alone.

Public Show - January 19-27, 2013

Experience the next generation of transportation at the North American International Auto Show 2013. See more than 500 vehicles on display, representing the most innovative designs in the world and experience North Americaís largest and most prestigious automotive showcase.